When we first burst onto the Ottawa music scene, they said we’d never last. They said our instruments were too heavy, and our knowledge of Balinese music too rudimentary. Over ten years later, our instruments are still pretty heavy but we have learned a lot about Balinese music. We have had the pleasure of studying with Balinese Master musicians I Made Lasmawan and I Dewa Made Suparta, and many of us have visited Bali to take in the sights and sounds first-hand.

In addition to great teachers, we are very grateful to have the continuing support of the Indonesian Embassy here in Ottawa. They’ve given us a practice space, a place to store our instruments, and have provided us with countless opportunities to perform the music that we love.

It has been a wild ride so far! We’ve shared the stage with accomplished Balinese dancers (Eko Nurcahyo), far-out jazz bands (Rakestar), African drummers and dancers (Akpokli), rock stars (Matt Ouimet), accomplished world acts (Orchid Ensemble), choirs (Cantata Singers), and many many more amazing musicians. We even had the opportunity to score the soundtrack for a silent film! Thanks to everyone who has made the last ten years possible; this of course includes all the wonderful audiences that we’ve been privileged to play for.

Our tenth anniversary show is going to be wonderful. We are preparing a selection of our greatest hits, premiering some new tunes, and performing with some incredible Balinese dancers. Come on out — you won’t be disappointed!

Here are the details:

What: Semara Winangun’s 10th Anniversary Celebration
Where: First Unitarian Congregation, 30 Cleary Avenue, Ottawa
When: Saturday April 13, 2013 @ 7:30PM

Tickets are 10$ in advance, and 15$ at the door (10$ at the door for students / seniors). Free admission for children under 10.

Tickets are available from gamelan members, from the Leading Note (starting March 7th), or by emailing us at ottawagamelan@gmail.com.